AI, Power Integrity and, the Future of Engineering

In this episode of The EEcosystem Podcast, Judy Warner catches up with legendary power integrity expert Steve Sandler, founder of Picotest, fresh off a European tour of PCIM and the IEEE SPI conference. They dive deep into the unprecedented pace of AI-driven innovation, its impact on power systems and thermal management, and how engineers can stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing landscape.   Steve shares practical advice for engineers—young and seasoned—on building intuition, finding mentorship, and navigating the expanding gap between academia and industry. Plus, hear his take on the role of AI in design tools, the limitations of SPICE, and why old-school wisdom is more important than ever.   🔧 Whether you’re struggling with thermal design, scaling innovation, or just trying to keep up with the AI wave, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.   🤝Join The EEcosystem Community for more free engineering resources and member-only benefits at https://theeecosystem.com   Episode Links: 📌 Featured Guest Steve Sandler – Founder and Managing Director of PicoTest Connect with Steve: LinkedIn 📚 Resources & Mentions PicoTest Online Measurement Class PicoTest Solutions Page Signal Integrity Journal DesignCon Call for Papers (2026) Steve's Recommended Strategy: Pair old wisdom with young energy Sponsor Links: 📘 Join The EEcosystem Community  and receive a free 90-day subscription to all of Eric Bogatin's training at The Signal Integrity Academy. Also enjoy more technical downloads and community member-only benefits.   👨🏽‍💻For free Technical Resources and to Learn more about Keysight Pathwave EDA Software Solutions visit the homepage now.   💻 Visit Cofactr for AI-Powered real-time part data Intelligence and supply-chain connected workflow and logistics.   🔗For all of your high-speed and RF connectors visit the Samtec website and access excellent engineering resources while you are there.    ⛰️Visit Summit Interconnect for all your complex PCB manufacturing needs.    🌎 Visit Isola Group global for High performance laminates and prepreg materials for PCB manufacturing, as well as new IC packaging interposer    💽 For high complexity EDA solutions visit SIEMENS EDA Website    💡For a free subscription Signal Integrity Journal and articles about SI/PI/EMI, news and technical resources follow the link above.   📡 For Custom RF and MW PCBs visit the Transline Technology Website to learn more.  🔌 Picotest specializes in high-fidelity testing and measurement tools, primarily for power-related applications. Visit their website for more product information and excellent training materials from expert Steve Sandler